Red flag warning issued for parts of Southland as heat returns

A red flag warning is in effect until Saturday afternoon for portions of Los Angeles and Ventura counties amid gusty winds, warm temperatures, dry vegetation and low humidities.

The warning, which indicates a higher than normal fire danger, will be in place until 3 p.m. Saturday and applies to the mountains of Los Angeles and Ventura counties as well as the San Fernando and Santa Clarita valleys.

Gusty Santa Ana winds will bring significant warming and widespread drying to much of Los Angeles and Ventura counties, according to the National Weather Service.

The strongest winds are expected to begin Thursday afternoon, with gusts between 35 and 45 mph likely across the mountain and valley areas, a weather service statement said.

“That combination of heat, very dry fuels and winds can cause explosive fire growth,” said Stuart Seto, a weather service meteorologist. “People should be extra careful with anything that generates a spark.”

Temperatures in L.A. County are expected to jump 10 degrees from Wednesday. Friday and Saturday will be the warmest days of the week, with temperatures in the lower 90s downtown and the mid 80s at the beaches, Seto said.

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